What to Do When a New Puppy Cries & Barks at Night
Puppies are an adorable addition to any home, but before becoming man's best friend, your puppy has to learn be man's quiet friend. Just as you're getting used to your new four-legged family member, she's also getting used to you, and the transition is often noisy. Understandably, this adjustment period can try your patience, especially at night. Have hope; there are ways to help your little one quiet down.
Take Him to the Bathroom
Understand that by barking and whining, your puppy is trying to tell you something. Puppies have small bladders and need to use the bathroom once or twice during the night. Barking or whining may be your puppy's way of letting you know she has to go out. To lessen his nighttime urges, remove all food and water at least two hours before the puppy's bedtime, then take him out to use the bathroom just before bed.
Comfort Her
Dogs are pack animals, and your puppy misses his litter family. Whining and barking are your puppy's way of trying to let them know where she is, so they can come and find her. There are ways to help your little one overcome his loneliness and fear. At night, you can bring the puppy's crate into your bedroom and allow her to sleep near your bed. This way, when he whines, you can reach down and stroke him reassuringly and use a comforting voice to help him sleep. When you initially receive your puppy, ask for a cloth or toy that belonged to her mother or litter mates. The smell of his missing family may comfort him enough to settle him down.
Stand Your Ground
If you choose to ignore your puppy's whining and barking completely, put the puppy in a separate room and do not check on her, no matter how much she whines. He will only assume your presence is his reward for his behavior, and the habit will become harder to break. Once the puppy learns that her calling brings no response, she will stop on her own.
Cooler Heads Prevail
No matter how frustrated you get at your new puppy's behavior, do not yell, hit or punish him for barking or whining in the night. Your puppy is simply trying as best she can to become accustomed to her new surroundings. If you respond to him in anger, you will only increase his anxiety and worsen the situation.
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